Mastering the Job Search: Insights and Best Practices from Hailey Hunt Georgia Fintech Academy Podcast Recap

Searching for a job in today’s competitive market can be an uphill battle. But with the right strategies and mindset, you can set yourself up for success. In the latest episode of the Podcast, Executive Director Laura Gibson-Lamothe and KSU student Clarissa Guzman Patino had an insightful conversation with Hailey Hunt , Account Executive Team Lead at Humans Doing . Hailey shared her top tips and best practices for navigating the job search journey with confidence and resilience.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation with Hailey:

1. The Reality of the Job Market

The job market can be tough, especially for students and early-career professionals trying to land their first role. Hailey emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability, as job seekers are likely to face numerous rejections before finding the right opportunity. “It’s okay to get no’s,” Hailey said. “It’s not a reflection of your worth or potential. It just means the right role is still out there for you.”

Pro Tip: Embrace rejection as part of the process and use each “no” as a learning opportunity to refine your approach.

2. Building a Standout Resume

A resume is often the first impression you make with a potential employer, and it needs to reflect your best self. Hailey recommended using tools like Resume Worded to review your resume for common mistakes and suggested highlighting relevant coursework, volunteer experiences, and leadership roles. She stressed the importance of good grammar, consistent formatting, and creatively showcasing what you’ve learned, even from small experiences.

Pro Tip: If you’re lacking work experience, leverage class projects, volunteer work, and clubs to showcase your skills and abilities.

3. Leveraging LinkedIn for Professional Branding

LinkedIn has evolved into a key platform for building a professional network and establishing a personal brand. Hailey encouraged students to start early by creating a LinkedIn profile, making professional connections, and posting regularly about industry-related topics and experiences. “It’s a great opportunity to connect with mentors and advocates in your field,” she said.

Pro Tip: Use LinkedIn as a platform to share key takeaways from events, connect with guest speakers, and show appreciation for industry volunteers.

4. Navigating the Interview Process

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but preparation and authenticity go a long way. Hailey shared her advice to never pretend to know something you don’t. Instead, focus on explaining your approach to problem-solving and demonstrating your eagerness to learn. She also emphasized that interviews should be conversational, not transactional. “Your interviewer is human too,” Hailey noted. “Connect with them, smile, and be genuinely curious.”

Pro Tip: Always prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest and engagement with the company and the role.

5. Networking Like a Pro

When it comes to networking, Hailey’s approach is simple: connect with people on a personal level. Start conversations with a compliment or a common interest, and avoid jumping straight into asking for favors. Hailey also highlighted the importance of utilizing alumni networks, professors, and university clubs, as these connections can be a valuable source of support and advice.

Pro Tip: When networking, focus on building genuine relationships rather than immediately asking for something. Offer to buy a coffee and pick someone’s brain—it’s a small gesture that can lead to big opportunities.

6. Following Up After an Interview

Sending a follow-up thank-you note can make a lasting impression. Hailey recommended sending a handwritten note if you can, or at the very least, an email. Show appreciation for the interviewer’s time, highlight key points from your conversation, and express your enthusiasm for the role. And don’t be afraid to ask about next steps!

Pro Tip: In your follow-up email, mention specific details from your interview to personalize your message and reinforce your interest.

Final Words of Encouragement

As the conversation wrapped up, Hailey left listeners with some final words of wisdom: “Being flexible is the name of the game. Your degree has equipped you with valuable skills, and even if you don’t land a job directly related to your major, that’s okay. Keep learning, stay open to new opportunities, and remember that a ‘no’ doesn’t define you.”

Take Action

If you’re a student or early-career professional navigating the job market, take these tips to heart and put them into action. Update your resume, polish your LinkedIn profile, practice your interview skills, and start reaching out to build your network.

For more insights and conversations like this, be sure to listen to the full episode of the Georgia Fintech Academy Podcast here https://open.spotify.com/episode/40xxg94pjbRVt5HRAoFED9?si=ff10753e53c844f7 or wherever you get your podcasts. Stay tuned for future episodes to help you thrive in the world of Fintech and beyond!

#JobSearch #CareerSuccess #GeorgiaFintechAcademy #NetworkingTips #LinkedIn #ResumeTips Kennesaw State University - Michael J. Coles College of Business Georgia Fintech Academy Coles Fintech & Payments Club | CFP Georgia State University - J. Mack Robinson College of Business